Photographers swiftly capture what sluggish painters cannot, such as the sparkle of a fleeting smile, the identity of media-shy superheroes, or the split-second a peregrine falcon breaks the sound barrier. Attain photographic know-how with today's Groupon: for $49, you get one three-hour Composition in the Field workshop from Digital Photo Academy (a $99 value). Workshops are held Saturdays and Sundays at various times and locations.

Staffed by experienced, professional photographers, Digital Photo Academy teaches shutterbugs of all skill levels how to creatively ensnare memories. The Composition in the Field class fans artistic flames during three-hour on-location workshops with an intimate group of 10 people or fewer. Sculpt lackluster freeze-frames into vibrant masterpieces as seasoned sharpshooters guide lenses toward flawless lighting, thoughtful framing, and perfectly timed snaps. Students can choose from various locations, class times, and themes including a low-light shoot at the National Mall East, a sightseeing snapfest around Georgetown, or a safari-themed jaunt to the National Zoo. Each class offers unique photo-honing opportunities around the nation's capital, from stills of the Lincoln Memorial and Francis Scott Key Park to action shots of majestic giant pandas lobbying for bamboo reform. Students should plan to schlep their own digital camera and any other equipment, such as a tripod, to the site of their picturesque adventure.